A new ordinance will take effect next month in Calhoun City preventing people from loitering on the town square.
The new law, approved unanimously by the board of aldermen, is aimed at the late night crowds of younger adults that gather on the inside of the square and frequently leave trash and other debris behind when they leave.
Mayor Amye Hill said in addition to the trash cleanup, the town has also incurred a lot of repair costs from vandalism associated with the groups that hang out on the square.
She noted the town is still working to repair the watering system on the square after numerous sprinkler heads were broken, and they spent more than $2,000 to replace globes on the various decorative lamp posts around the square that were broken by someone firing a .22 rifle at them.
“The intent of this ordinance is to help our police department protect us all,” Mayor Hill said. “They will certainly use discretion in enforcement, but something had to be done.”
The square has long been a popular spot for area youth to circle in their vehicles on the weekends. The road circling the square is state highway. The ordinance does not impact that, only those who park for extended periods.